Dental Implants Process Palmdale & Lancaster, CA

Dental implant restorations are becoming the most popular choice to replace missing teeth. While implants are more expensive and the length of time it takes to complete them is greater, they offer many benefits that allow patients to live a better quality of life. Teeth implants allow the patient to eat a healthy diet, offer a natural appearance and are better for your overall and oral health when compared to other, more traditional restorations. They are also easier to care for, safer for the surrounding teeth, help prevent bone loss, and are made to last long time.

The many benefits dental implants offer do come with limitations. One of those being the length of time it takes to complete the implant process which can be anywhere from four months up to a year or more. The total amount of time it will take depends on the patient’s health and oral health and the number of implants being placed. The process will be completed in stages and will involve several appointments and lengthy healing times. Smile Dental Group performs every stage of the dental implant process at their Palmdale and Lancaster CA dentist offices. This will save you the time and hassle traveling to multiple dentist offices.

Before The Implants Are Placed

Extractions – Many patients will need to have damaged teeth extracted before they can begin the implant process. Sometimes the implants can be placed immediately following the extractions if the patient is in good oral health and has good bone density.

Gum Disease – The success of your implants depends on the health of your gums too. If you suffer from gum disease, you will need to seek the proper treatment first or risk implant failure. This will extend the total amount of time it takes to complete the entire process and depends on how far the disease has progressed.

Bone Graft – Having enough bone to support the implants is very important. If you suffered from gum disease for a long time, there is a chance that it may have destroyed some of the bone. In this case, you will need to have a bone graft performed to restore your jawbone. That could extend the time it takes to complete the dental implant process by about three to four months.

The Dental Implants Process

Planning Stage – One of our dentists will perform a comprehensive evaluation and examination of your oral health as well as your overall health. We use CT Scanning and 3-D images to gain an all-encompassing view of the teeth, gums, and supporting bone structure. A custom treatment plan is created that is personalized to your needs and goals.

Implant(s) Placement Stage – During your surgery, the implant(s) will be strategically placed on the healthiest, strongest bone tissue to ensure you get the best results. The implants (tiny titanium posts) are designed to fuse with the jaw bone for a permanent bond that will support natural bone regeneration. The healing process can take anywhere from 3 – 6 months. You may receive a temporary dental restoration while you heal.

Abutment Placement Stage – Once your soft tissues have healed and the implants have fully integrated with the jaw bone, you will return for the attachment of the abutment. It takes about 3-6 weeks for the gums to heal around the abutment. The abutment is attached to the implant to help support the final restoration.

Attachment of the Restoration Stage – The last step involves uncovering the abutment and attaching the permanent dental restoration. This may be a dental crown, denture, or bridge, depending on the number of implants and location of your missing or damaged teeth.